Sky Sports journalist speculates Arsenal in ‘strong position’ to sign West Ham United ace Declan Rice
Arsenal are in a “strong position” to sign West Ham midfielder Declan Rice this summer, according to Sky Sports journalist Dharmesh Sheth.
The midfielder has long been linked with an exit from the London Stadium, with those rumours intensifying amid a poor league campaign from the Hammers.
The club are currently involved in a relegation battle, with Arsenal currently sitting top of the Premier League table.
“During a news conference with England at the World Cup, Rice made it clear he wanted to play at the highest level – meaning Champions League football, and he already has no shortage of interest from clubs at that level,” said Sheth, as quoted by Sky Sports.
“It was widely believed he would make the return to Chelsea at some point in his career – with Rice having previously been part of their academy since the age of seven and maintaining a close friendship with Mason Mount.
“However, Arsenal have since emerged as a potential destination and their tilt towards the Premier League title puts them in a strong position. There was interest in him from the Gunners in January and that is likely to intensify when the window re-opens.”
Summer move likely
Rice has been a superb servant for West Ham, leading the club with the captain’s armband to fantastic Premier League finishes and European adventures in recent times.
He has helped the club punch above its weight, with another brilliant European journey ongoing.
But given their league struggles, coupled with the fact Rice enters the final two years of his contract in July, it is becoming increasingly likely that he will move on this summer.
It seems like the perfect time for a reluctant West Ham to sell their star asset, with the midfielder’s value perhaps at an all-time high.
He is shining for club and country, and is reportedly wanted by a handful of top teams, with Newcastle the latest side to join that list.
A battle for his signature is certain to take place this summer, with West Ham’s only positive in the scenario being how much money they can fetch for the midfielder.
That value may decrease if the Hammers suffer relegation this season, but they will still be confident of receiving a figure in the region of £100million given his ability and his potential.